Al Qaeda Leader Al Zawahiri Says He Has American Hostage

In a newly released audio message, al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri claims that his organization is holding hostage Warren Weinstein, a 70-year-old American who went missing last August in Pakistan.

Zawahiri’s statement is the first official claim of responsibility by any group in relation to the kidnapping, and a U.S. official said the statement buttressed earlier “indications” that al Qaeda might be holding the American.
A U.S. official told ABC News that although there has been no “proof of life” offered by al Qaeda or its allies that proves they have Weinstein, there were already “indications” he may be held by al Qaeda.